Seated shaman holding a shell Represented in a... Lot 24

Seated shaman holding a shell Represented in a ritual activity, the seated shaman holds an axe in his right hand and a shell in the other, which rests on his knee. He is adorned with a necklace whose two ends fall back in a zigzag pattern. A cap forming a helmet covers his head and a hole serves as an opening for this anthropomorphic container. The volumes of the sculpture are softly treated and covered with a shiny red slip characteristic of the Colima style. The shell here takes on imposing proportions in relation to reality, underlining its role in the scene depicted. It is a spondulus, a symbol of power and authority. It was used as a musical instrument during religious ceremonies and appeared to the elite. Its rarity and prestige make it a favourite object for funeral offerings. Brown terracotta with red slip, with traces of burning and manganese oxide. Colima culture, Mexico 100 BC - 250 AD H. 36 - l. - Ep. cm Condition: Broken and glued at right elbow and left leg. Restored right ear and restorations on the left half leg. Hole on the shell. Bibliography for a similar object: - Von Winning "Shaft Tomb Fiures", 1974, Fig. 40. Provenance: - Collection of M. XXX, acquired in the 60s Expert: Bénédicte HAMARD.